Deputy Prime Minister of Malta Chris Fearne submitted his resignation on Friday in a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister Robert Abela amidst Fearne’s involvement in a fraud scandal. He also requested the retraction of his nomination for European commissioner.
Fearne indicated in the letter that he was certain that the court, upon investigation, will find his innocence. He considered the accusations against him unfair and stated that the step he was taking by submitting his resignation was not because he had any doubt regarding his innocence but because it was the right thing to do. He also stated he is willing to come back to a position to continue serving Malta if the country decides it is right.
Abela responded to the letter by reiterating that he had previously expressed his thoughts on the matter and continued to praise Fearne’s integrity and ability. He suggested Fearne consider his decision, highlighting that he has not only been a support for him personally but that he has also benefited the country. Abela concluded by affirming his unwavering confidence in Fearne.
Fearne resigned from his position amidst allegations of fraud tied to the adjudication committee’s decision to grant the management rights of three state hospitals (Gozo, St Luke’s and Karin Grech) to Vitals Global Healthcare. These hospitals were run by the government with an annual operating cost of around 70 million euros. A deal was struck to hand over 70 million euros to Vitals for the hospital management, with the promise that Vitals would additionally invest 200 million euros from its own funds to upgrade the facilities. On the contrary, the agreement fell through as no improvements were made despite the promise, leading to allegations that the deal was a total fraud.
Fearne is not the only person involved in the scandal. The central bank governor, along with 14 other people and two companies, are also implicated in the matter. Despite the hospital scandal, Fearne will continue as deputy leader of the Labour Party, as Abela mentioned at a recent meeting.
